Candid Sustainability Podcast

3D AGO

EP 8: South Africa's Just Energy Transition: Rhetoric or Real Progress?

South Africa’s paradox is staggering: a country with world-class solar and wind resources still grappling with 12 hours of daily load shedding and a coal dependency that’s over 80%. The disconnect between enormous clean energy potential and the reliance on coal for jobs and livelihoods exemplifies the complex reality of just energy transition. Are promises of a greener future just rhetoric, or can real progress be made without leaving communities behind? In this episode, Kabelo Rathobei dives into the heart of South Africa’s energy crisis, unpacking the struggles, successes, and tough decisions shaping its climate future. You’ll discover how initiatives like the Easigas clean cooking project are saving lives and reducing indoor pollution, why Sasol’s move towards green fuels marks a crucial but cautious shift for industry giants, and how private and community-led solar installations are igniting a bottom-up renewable revolutionall driven by load shedding the grid’s limits. We break down the nuanced tensions of the just transition, how to balance urgent power needs with long-term climate goals, and why delaying coal plant retirements worsens climate impacts while risking economic and social stability. Kabelo explains the risks of new fossil fuel projects, like natural gas and offshore oil exploration, which threaten to lock South Africa—and Africa—into decades of stranded assets. The episode highlights how decisions made today will reverberate across the continent, influencing regional power pools and climate justice for marginalized communities who bear the brunt of environmental harms. Most importantly, this isn’t just about South Africa—it's a blueprint for the whole continent. If the country’s transition falters, it could set back climate efforts across Africa; if it succeeds, it offers a model for equitable, sustainable growth. With a candid, African perspective, Kabelo emphasizes that progress and accountability must go hand in hand and that real community voices need seats at the table. Tune in for a powerful look at what it really takes to turn bold promises into tangible change and why South Africa’s story is pivotal to global climate justice. Perfect for climate advocates, policymakers, students, and anyone interested in how Africa is shaping its climate future—these struggles, solutions, and stakes are vital for all of us. Don’t miss this eye-opening episode of Candid Sustainability, where hope meets hard truth. Support the show Follow Candid Sustainability and Kabelo on Instagram : Kabelo Rathobei (@krathobei) • Instagram photos and videos Kabelo Rathobei (@krathobei) • Instagram photos and videos Engage with the community and read more on Substack: Candid Sustainability | Kabelo Rathobei | Substack

25 min

APR 20

EP 7: Carbon Markets in Africa

In this episode of the Candid Sustainability Podcast, host Kabelo Rathobei engages in a conversation with Abdilahi Nuh, an engineer and founder of Presto Innovations. They explore the intricacies of carbon markets, focusing on Africa's pivotal role. Abdilahi discusses his work in carbon removal through biochar, a method that transforms invasive species into carbon-rich material to restore arid lands. The discussion highlights the potential benefits and risks of carbon markets, emphasizing the need for transparency and community involvement. Abdilahi also addresses misconceptions about arid lands and shares insights on making carbon markets more equitable. The episode encourages listeners to rethink carbon markets and engage in informed discussions. Support the show Follow Candid Sustainability and Kabelo on Instagram : Kabelo Rathobei (@krathobei) • Instagram photos and videos Kabelo Rathobei (@krathobei) • Instagram photos and videos Engage with the community and read more on Substack: Candid Sustainability | Kabelo Rathobei | Substack

15 min

APR 6

EP 6: Building a Career in Sustainability

In this episode, Kabelo Rathobei interviews Comfort Apeh Francis, an environmentalist and climate innovator from Nigeria, about building a career in sustainability, the challenges faced, and her innovative tools like the Sustainability Career Pathfinder. They explore diverse career paths in sustainability, the importance of African voices in global climate discussions, and practical advice for newcomers. Resources Green Bridge Africa Innovations - https://greenbridgeafrica.com Sustainability Career Pathfinder - https://sustainabilitypathfinder.lovable.app UNFCCC Learning Platform - https://unfccc.int/learning Climatebase Job Board - https://climatebase.org Inco Green Digital Pathways Course - https://incoacademy.com LinkedIn Learning ESG Courses - https://linkedin.com/learning Work on Climate Community - https://workonclimate.org Support the show Follow Candid Sustainability and Kabelo on Instagram : Kabelo Rathobei (@krathobei) • Instagram photos and videos Kabelo Rathobei (@krathobei) • Instagram photos and videos Engage with the community and read more on Substack: Candid Sustainability | Kabelo Rathobei | Substack

35 min

07/23/2025

EP 5: Sustainability vs. Fire Safety - Can We Build Green Without Getting Burned?

Can a building be both green and safe? In this thought-provoking episode, we dive into the overlooked tensions between sustainability and fire safety. Joined by fire safety engineer and lecturer Rhoda, we unpack how eco-friendly building materials—like wood—offer climate-conscious benefits but introduce new fire risks. From concrete’s carbon footprint to the vulnerabilities of informal settlements, this conversation explores the complex trade-offs in designing for both people and the planet. We examine why safety must be built into sustainability from the start, how regulations are struggling to keep up with innovation, and why public awareness is just as critical as good policy. The episode wraps with a candid confession segment that encourages listeners to reflect on the blind spots in their own sustainability choices. Key Takeaways: Going green shouldn’t mean compromising safety.Fire risks must be considered early in the design process.Wood is sustainable but combustible—innovation must be paired with caution.Fire safety regulations often trail behind rapid changes in materials and design.Informal settlements face unique challenges that demand context-specific solutions.Cross-disciplinary collaboration is key to creating truly resilient spaces.Whether you're a designer, policy maker, or conscious consumer, this episode will spark reflection on how we balance ambition with responsibility in the built environment. Support the show Follow Candid Sustainability and Kabelo on Instagram : Kabelo Rathobei (@krathobei) • Instagram photos and videos Kabelo Rathobei (@krathobei) • Instagram photos and videos Engage with the community and read more on Substack: Candid Sustainability | Kabelo Rathobei | Substack

24 min

07/09/2025

EP 4: AI and Sustainability - A new era in waste management

What happens when cutting-edge AI meets traditional waste management? Prepare to have your perspective transformed as sustainability innovator Gift Lubele takes us behind the scenes of South Africa's hidden recycling economy. Did you know that 80-90% of all South African post-consumer packaging passes through the hands of approximately 90,000 to 200,000 informal waste pickers? These unsung environmental heroes work tirelessly, often in dangerous conditions and facing significant social stigma, to collect and sort materials that would otherwise end up in landfills. Gift shares the remarkable journey that led him to co-found Kudoti, a Google-backed waste management platform designed to bridge the gap between these informal waste collectors and major corporations seeking data visibility for sustainability reporting. His definition of sustainability—"protecting possibilities" by balancing people, planet, and prosperity—offers a refreshing framework that acknowledges both environmental and social dimensions of the challenge. As we explore the intersection of technology and waste management, Gift unpacks why technological solutions alone aren't enough. From the challenges of behavior change ("it might be too late for adults") to the importance of local knowledge ("what works as an incentive in one community fails in another"), we examine why even well-designed systems often struggle to drive meaningful environmental impact. The conversation takes fascinating turns through AI's potential in predicting climate trends, aggregating fragmented sustainability data, and creating green job opportunities that balance ecological and economic needs. Whether you're a sustainability professional seeking innovative approaches or simply someone trying to make better environmental choices, this episode will transform how you think about waste, technology, and the invisible workforce keeping our recycling systems alive. Join us for an honest conversation about both the promise and limitations of technology in building a truly circular economy. Join in on #CandidConfessions and let us know what is the one waste habit you still struggle with? Get in touch with Gift at www.giftlubele.com Support the show Follow Candid Sustainability and Kabelo on Instagram : Kabelo Rathobei (@krathobei) • Instagram photos and videos Kabelo Rathobei (@krathobei) • Instagram photos and videos Engage with the community and read more on Substack: Candid Sustainability | Kabelo Rathobei | Substack

45 min

06/28/2025

EP 3: Sustainability in My Culture: What I Didn’t Realise I Grew Up Doing Right

In this conversation, Kabelo explores the deep-rooted cultural practices that have long embodied sustainability, often without the formal recognition of the term. She reflects on her upbringing in South Africa, where resourcefulness and eco-conscious behaviours were a way of life, not a trend. As she navigates the professional sustainability landscape in Europe, she recognises the disconnect between traditional practices and modern sustainability narratives, advocating for a broader understanding of what sustainability means across different cultures. Kabelo emphasises the importance of reclaiming these cultural practices as valid contributions to the global sustainability conversation. Takeaways Sustainability practices often stem from necessity rather than ideology. Cultural wisdom plays a crucial role in sustainable living. Many traditional practices are inherently sustainable without being labeled as such. The global South has valuable insights into sustainability that the North can learn from. Sustainability doesn't have to conform to a specific aesthetic or lifestyle. Reusing and repurposing items has been a common practice in many cultures. Food waste management has always been part of traditional practices. Sustainability is not a new concept; it's been practiced for generations. Feeling out of place in professional sustainability spaces is common for many. Everyone can contribute to sustainability in their own way, regardless of their background. Support the show Follow Candid Sustainability and Kabelo on Instagram : Kabelo Rathobei (@krathobei) • Instagram photos and videos Kabelo Rathobei (@krathobei) • Instagram photos and videos Engage with the community and read more on Substack: Candid Sustainability | Kabelo Rathobei | Substack

10 min

06/28/2025

EP 2: Green Guilt & Other Weird Sustainability Feelings

In this episode, Kabelo discusses the emotional complexities surrounding sustainability, particularly focusing on the concepts of green guilt and eco anxiety. Through personal anecdotes and cultural reflections, she explores the challenges of maintaining sustainable practices in daily life while navigating societal expectations. The conversation emphasizes the importance of progress over perfection in the journey towards a more sustainable lifestyle. Takeaways Green guilt is a common feeling among those who care about the environment. Personal experiences shape our understanding of sustainability. Eco anxiety arises when personal sustainability norms are challenged. It's okay to forget shopping bags sometimes; perfection isn't the goal. Waste management can feel overwhelming and complex. Cultural practices often include sustainable principles without labeling them as such. Progress in sustainability is more important than striving for perfection. Small wins in sustainability should be celebrated. Fast fashion is a significant topic that deserves further discussion. Emotional well-being is crucial in the journey of sustainability. Support the show Follow Candid Sustainability and Kabelo on Instagram : Kabelo Rathobei (@krathobei) • Instagram photos and videos Kabelo Rathobei (@krathobei) • Instagram photos and videos Engage with the community and read more on Substack: Candid Sustainability | Kabelo Rathobei | Substack

10 min

06/26/2025

EP 1 Candid Beginnings - Why this podcast exists

This introduction episode gives a glimpse into what to expect with this podcast. Candid Sustainability is a podcast that explores the complexities and challenges of living sustainably in a real-world context. Hosted by Kabelo, a corporate sustainability PhD researcher, the podcast emphasises the importance of honest conversations about sustainability, acknowledging the messy and imperfect nature of individual choices. It aims to create a community for those who care about the planet but may feel overwhelmed or guilty about their efforts. The podcast also highlights the cultural influences on sustainability practices and encourages listeners to redefine what sustainability means beyond trends and perfection. Support the show Follow Candid Sustainability and Kabelo on Instagram : Kabelo Rathobei (@krathobei) • Instagram photos and videos Kabelo Rathobei (@krathobei) • Instagram photos and videos Engage with the community and read more on Substack: Candid Sustainability | Kabelo Rathobei | Substack

11 min

Candid Sustainability Podcast

Episodes

EP 8: South Africa's Just Energy Transition: Rhetoric or Real Progress?

EP 7: Carbon Markets in Africa

EP 6: Building a Career in Sustainability

EP 5: Sustainability vs. Fire Safety - Can We Build Green Without Getting Burned?

EP 4: AI and Sustainability - A new era in waste management

EP 3: Sustainability in My Culture: What I Didn’t Realise I Grew Up Doing Right

EP 2: Green Guilt & Other Weird Sustainability Feelings

EP 1 Candid Beginnings - Why this podcast exists

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